HISTORY OF EDUCATION
HED 4805
DEPARTMENT OF
EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
Assignment 03
JULY 25, 2025
100 MARKS
Unique assignment number: 174079
, Due date: 25 July 2025
1. Elaborate on the concept “ecology of knowledge” as used in the text. (5)
The term “ecology of knowledge” refers to the idea that there should be a co-
existence and mutual respect among different ways of knowing—including
traditional, indigenous, and scientific knowledge systems. In the context of post-
colonial Africa, this concept challenges the dominance of Western epistemologies
that were imposed during colonial times. Instead, it calls for the recognition and
revival of African knowledge systems, values, and histories. The idea promotes
cognitive justice, meaning that no single form of knowledge should be considered
superior or more valid than others. Embracing an ecology of knowledge is crucial
for social transformation and cultural empowerment in Africa.
2. Differentiate between coloniality and colonialism. (10)
Colonialism refers to the political and economic domination of one country over
another, where a foreign power physically occupies and controls a territory. It
involves direct rule, exploitation of resources, and imposition of foreign systems
of governance, culture, and education. For example, during colonialism, European
powers ruled African countries and imposed their policies, cultures, and
languages.
Coloniality, on the other hand, refers to the enduring impact of colonialism even
after countries have gained political independence. It involves the internalisation
of colonial values, stereotypes, and structures, especially in education, culture,
governance, and social relations. It is a form of institutionalised colonialism that
continues to shape African societies, often making them dependent on Western
systems and values.
In short, colonialism is the historical act of domination, while coloniality is the
lasting legacy of that domination, visible in how people think, learn, and relate to
the world post-independence.
3. Do you think it was prudent and necessary to dissolve the OAU in favour of
AU? Substantiate your answer. (10)
HED 4805
DEPARTMENT OF
EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
Assignment 03
JULY 25, 2025
100 MARKS
Unique assignment number: 174079
, Due date: 25 July 2025
1. Elaborate on the concept “ecology of knowledge” as used in the text. (5)
The term “ecology of knowledge” refers to the idea that there should be a co-
existence and mutual respect among different ways of knowing—including
traditional, indigenous, and scientific knowledge systems. In the context of post-
colonial Africa, this concept challenges the dominance of Western epistemologies
that were imposed during colonial times. Instead, it calls for the recognition and
revival of African knowledge systems, values, and histories. The idea promotes
cognitive justice, meaning that no single form of knowledge should be considered
superior or more valid than others. Embracing an ecology of knowledge is crucial
for social transformation and cultural empowerment in Africa.
2. Differentiate between coloniality and colonialism. (10)
Colonialism refers to the political and economic domination of one country over
another, where a foreign power physically occupies and controls a territory. It
involves direct rule, exploitation of resources, and imposition of foreign systems
of governance, culture, and education. For example, during colonialism, European
powers ruled African countries and imposed their policies, cultures, and
languages.
Coloniality, on the other hand, refers to the enduring impact of colonialism even
after countries have gained political independence. It involves the internalisation
of colonial values, stereotypes, and structures, especially in education, culture,
governance, and social relations. It is a form of institutionalised colonialism that
continues to shape African societies, often making them dependent on Western
systems and values.
In short, colonialism is the historical act of domination, while coloniality is the
lasting legacy of that domination, visible in how people think, learn, and relate to
the world post-independence.
3. Do you think it was prudent and necessary to dissolve the OAU in favour of
AU? Substantiate your answer. (10)
